Bears QB Justin Fields reportedly has return date in mind

Chicago Bears starting quarterback Justin Fields seems on track to miss a second consecutive game because of a dislocated right thumb but intends to return to the lineup sooner rather than later.

Jeremy Fowler of ESPN reported Wednesday that Fields "is determined to get back as early as" Chicago's Week 9 contest at the New Orleans Saints on Nov. 5. 

"Fields' availability hinges on his ability to grip and throw a football, which could take time," Fowler explained. "But he's been diligent in his rehab and game prep and hopes to avoid injured reserve." 

Undrafted rookie Tyson Bagent has temporarily replaced Fields atop Chicago's depth chart and made his first career start against the Las Vegas Raiders this past Sunday. Bagent completed 21-of-29 pass attempts for 162 yards with a touchdown and no interceptions in Chicago's 30-12 win over Las Vegas and is expected to start when the 2-5 Bears play at the 2-4 Los Angeles Chargers Sunday night. 

According to ESPN stats, Fields began Wednesday ranked 27th in the NFL among qualified players with a 39.3 adjusted QBR and tied for sixth with 11 touchdowns through the air on the season. To compare, Bagent is responsible for a 49.5 adjusted QBR but has thus far attempted just 43 passes. 

Bears head coach Matt Eberflus has repeatedly insisted this week that Fields is "our starter" when healthy, but Fowler mentioned that Eberflus and company believe they "have something here" with Bagent.

"Bagent's football curiosity is strong," a team source told Fowler. "He's constantly asking questions and figuring out the 'why' in a play or plan of attack. He picked up the offense quickly in camp and he makes quick decisions." 

As of Wednesday afternoon, OddsChecker listed the Bears as eight-and-a-half-point underdogs against the Chargers. One wonders if Eberflus could sit Fields for the Week 9 matchup at the Saints if Chicago falls to 2-6 on Sunday evening.